Jakarta, Wartatambang.com -- On April 24, the General Elections Commission (KPU) declared Minister of Defense Prabowo Subianto as winners of the 2024 presidential election. Shortly after, Prabowo announced plans to visit leaders in the Middle East, following earlier trips to China, Japan, and Malaysia after the election results were finalized on March 20.

These diplomatic moves suggest that Prabowo aims to continue the legacy of harmonious international relationships built under the administration of President Joko Widodo and Vice President Ma’ruf Amin. Fredy Buhama Lumbang Tobing, an international relations professor from the University of Indonesia, emphasized that these visits serve as a platform for Prabowo to introduce himself as Indonesia’s incoming leader. They also signal a strategic effort to reassure both domestic and international audiences that Indonesia’s diplomatic continuity will be preserved during the power transition.

Prabowo’s efforts in diplomacy could also pave the way for reciprocal visits from leaders of partner countries to Indonesia. For example, Jordan may be among his future destinations, as King Abdullah II has already extended congratulations to Prabowo on his electoral victory. The Jordanian King’s warm message, shared in response to a post on Prabowo’s Instagram account, highlighted their long-standing acquaintance and reflected the positive diplomatic rapport between the two.

These pre-inauguration engagements underline Prabowo’s intent to uphold Indonesia’s “free and active” foreign policy, which prioritizes equal and harmonious relations with various nations. However, the ultimate goal of such diplomacy should remain focused on advancing Indonesia’s national interests and supporting its developmental agenda. To achieve this, the incoming administration will need to carefully prioritize diplomatic efforts to ensure they align with domestic needs.

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Notably, Prabowo’s decision to visit China, Japan, and Malaysia highlights a clear focus on Asia as a priority in Indonesia’s foreign policy. Experts anticipate that diplomatic outreach to Europe and the United States will follow after Prabowo and Gibran’s official inauguration in October.

Fostering Asian Partnerships

One of the notable stops on Prabowo’s Asian tour was China, a longstanding and economically significant partner for Indonesia. Arfin Sudirman, an international relations expert at the University of Padjadjaran, viewed this visit as a reaffirmation of Indonesia’s commitment to sustaining its robust relationship with China. Given China’s position as one of the fastest-growing economies globally, Prabowo’s administration is expected to strengthen this partnership further.

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